Canada loses measles-elimination status after yearlong outbreak

Canada has become the first North American country to lose its measles-elimination status.

This change follows a large outbreak centered in Ontario, where measles cases have surged.

The World Health Organization revoked the status after measles transmission continued for 12 consecutive months.

Canada can regain its status if it stops measles transmission for at least one year.

Health officials report more than 5,000 measles cases this year, more than double the total cases seen over the past 25 years combined.